Decision-making and scalar biases in solar photovoltaics roll-out

Abstract

Rapid roll-out of solar photovoltaic (PV) energy is a key component of decarbonising energy systems. Yet clear risks are involved, including footprints from land use and infrastructure as well as socio-economic inequalities. Where are the critical decisions about solar roll-out made, by whom, and to what effect for justice? The paper reviews and synthesises emerging scholarship on solar PV roll-out, cross-sectoral aspects of this multi-scalar energy transition, and energy justice. We identify a trend of diverse scalar biases, and highlight considerable emerging research on risks of scalar injustice and the policy adjustments required to avoid them during rapid solar roll-out.